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Akron Podcast

Akron Podcast

By: Dave Jackson
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Do you live in Akron, Ohio? Want to keep up with what is going on in your city? This podcast is for you. We will cover local news (the good and the bad), Entertainment schedules, Updates on what your local representatives are up to (in a "just the facts / Non-biased fashion), and whatever else you'd like to hear.Copyright 2026 Dave Jackson Politics & Government Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Where Are Fireworks in Akron Ohio?

    Where Are Fireworks in Akron Ohio?
    Jul 3 2026
    Celebrating the Fourth of July in Akron

    In this episode, I get you ready for the Fourth of July with a rundown of where you can catch fireworks all around the Akron area. As America celebrates its 250th birthday, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the holiday. If you're staying in Akron, Lock 3's fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m., but I'll also share plenty of other options if you're looking for something closer to home.

    Fireworks - Pools - and Discounted Rides

    I also talk about some of the fun happening around town, including the All-American Burger & Barbecue Festival. If you leave hungry, that's on you. There will be plenty of burgers, barbecue, and just about every excuse you need to loosen your belt a notch. Since the weather is expected to be hot, I also cover where you can cool off at local pools and splash pads. And if your holiday plans include a few adult beverages, I'll tell you how to score a discounted Lyft ride, because getting home safely beats getting a DUI every single time.

    Speaking of Food

    Kroger bought Giant Eagle for 1.65 Billion

    Potential Bus Strike

    On the news side, I discuss the possibility of an Akron Metro bus strike. Bus operators say they haven't received a raise in more than three years, and if a strike happens, it could have a major impact on people who rely on public transportation every day.

    More Shootings

    I also cover a heartbreaking story involving teenagers and gun violence. It's one of those stories that's difficult to talk about because it raises serious questions about how young people are getting access to firearms and the devastating consequences that follow. Sometimes sarcasm just isn't enough to cover stories like this, but it's a conversation our community needs to have.

    To end on a lighter note, I highlight some great entertainment coming to the area, including concerts at the Goodyear Theater and Blossom Music Center. Summer is one of the best times to get out and enjoy everything Akron has to offer, and I'll help you find something worth putting on your calendar.

    Whether you're looking for fireworks, local news, concerts, community events, or just want to know what's happening around town, I've got you covered. It's another week of Akron news, a little humor, a little sarcasm, and hopefully a few reasons to appreciate the community we call home.

    Takeaways
    • I share a complete Fourth of July fireworks schedule so you can plan where to celebrate.
    • I cover changes in local radio and what they might mean for the future of traditional broadcasting.
    • I discuss a tragic shooting involving teenagers and why youth access to firearms remains a serious community concern.
    • I look at Akron's Street Team violence prevention program and whether expanding it will make a meaningful difference.
    • Kroger is returning to the area through its purchase of Giant Eagle, bringing another twist to the local grocery landscape.
    • With summer temperatures climbing, I let you know where you can cool off at Akron's public pools and splash pads.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Tell a Friend and Support the Show

    Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

    Support the Show

    Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

    Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

    Monarch Money

    Get Involved With the Show?

    This show is by you for you! Got feedback? I want to hear it? Got insights? I want to hear it! Be a part of the show and help us make our city (and this podcast) better.

    Get Involved With the Show
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    18 mins
  • Devo Returns Home

    Devo Returns Home
    Jun 5 2026

    So today I will share my experience going downtown to check out Devo at the Civic. I also talk about Blimp Day, Zoo News, APS Terminations, Pro Golf in Akron, Zoo News, Veterans getting help, Camp Creative along with Connect at the Rec, Grocery stores, and a whole lot more

    PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

    Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

    Monarch Money

    Start Your Podcast Today

    Join the School of Podcasting When you join the School of Podcasting you can quit worrying about: Are people going to listen to me? (Yes, cause I'll show you how to see what they want). Am I going to sound stupid? (No, as I'll show you the magic of editing) It will cost a million dollars (No, I'll have you sounding like a million bucks without spending a million bucks). I don't anything about this technology (You said the same thing about driving). Get access to: Step-by-step tutorials, live group coaching, a mastermind group filled with brilliant podcasting minds, and the ability to schedule as many one-on-one quick fix calls as you like at no extra charge. Join worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/akron

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    When I purchase something, Acrons rounds up to the nearest dollar and I earn interest on that. It's a simple (almost invisible) way to save money. I switched all my banking to Acorns. They even have tools to help me teach my kids to be financially responsible. Use the link below and sign up today!

    Acorns Online Banking

    Tell a Friend and Support the Show

    Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

    Support the Show
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    30 mins
  • State Of the City Part 3

    State Of the City Part 3
    May 22 2026
    So I went to the "State of the City" (part 3) presentation at the beautiful civic. I didn't know what to expect, but I was surprised by the turnout. A wide variety of Akronites, who were all lead by Kindergarteners to open with the pledge of Allegiance. It was specialThe Mayor went through the different things the city has been planning and doing. Was it a pep rally? Sure, but you can ignore the positive things happening in the city. We like to poke fun of those things that aren't, but all in all a lot of things are going in the right direction.You can check out the main points, slides, and transcript here.From the Press ReleaseHere is a quick summary of the presentaiton from the Mayor's websiteDuring his third State of the City address delivered on Tues. May 19 at the historic Akron Civic Theatre, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik outlined a sweeping vision for Akron’s future centered on collaboration, innovation, and community investment. The speech highlighted major new initiatives across housing, public safety, youth opportunity, sustainability, and economic development, all tied together through the city’s “Together for Akron” framework.“Our address was about more than programs or announcements,” said Mayor Malik. “It was about the belief that Akron’s future can be incredibly bright if we continue to work together. Every major step forward we are making, whether it’s housing, safety, sustainability, youth investment, or economic growth, is happening because residents, businesses, nonprofits, schools, and public institutions are leaning in together.”Down Payment Assistance ProgramAmong the evening’s major announcements was a new Down Payment Assistance Program launching later this summer to help first-time homebuyers purchase homes in Akron. Eligible residents meeting income requirements will be able to receive up to $7,500 toward down payment and closing costs, helping expand access to homeownership for working families.Housing Code LegislationMayor Malik also announced upcoming legislation aimed at strengthening Akron’s housing code, including reforms addressing recurring mold violations, improvements to the city’s rental registration system, and the elimination of minimum lot sizes for new infill housing construction on vacant lots to reduce barriers to building new housing.Polymer Pathways PartnershipEconomic development and workforce growth were a major focus of the address. Mayor Malik highlighted continued downtown investment, neighborhood business growth, and Akron’s leadership in sustainable polymers and advanced materials. The City announced a new Polymer Pathways Partnership that will connect Akron students to education, credentials, and careers in advanced manufacturing and polymer industries through partnerships with The University of Akron, Stark State College, Akron Public Schools, the Greater Akron Chamber, and industry partners.Together for Akron DashboardMayor Malik also unveiled an updated Together for Akron public dashboard, allowing residents to track city initiatives and progress in real time at www.akronohio.gov/dashboard. The dashboard will be updated quarterly.WM Development AgreementMayor Malik highlighted City Council’s recent approval of a development agreement with WM that will finally close the long-contested Fountain Street waste transfer station and build a new, state-of-the-art facility on Archwood Ave. The agreement is the first in the City’s history to include community benefits. These commitments include $1 million over 10 years focused on the East Akron and Middlebury neighborhoods.Community Violence Intervention (CVI) ProgramOn public safety, the City announced the upcoming launch of a new community violence intervention (CVI) program in partnership with Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and Minority Behavioral Health Group. The initiative will connect victims of violence with immediate counseling and support services to help prevent retaliation and break cycles of harm.Use of Force RecommendationsThe speech also highlighted the city’s continued implementation of recommendations from the recent use-of-force review conducted by the Police Executive Research Forum, including policy updates, accountability reforms, and a commitment to provide monthly public updates on implementation progress.Blimp DayThe City also announced the launch of Akron’s first-ever “Blimp Day” celebration in partnership with The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Scheduled for Saturday, June 6, the event will feature two Goodyear blimps flying over all 24 Akron neighborhoods from 9am-noon and is expected to become an annual city tradition.CollaborationThroughout the address, Mayor Malik repeatedly emphasized that Akron’s momentum is rooted in collaboration and civic engagement.“Together for Akron is more than just a plan, it is a way of doing things,” said Mayor Malik. “The future of Akron is not something that is going to happen to us. It...
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    1 hr and 20 mins
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